Outdoor Nature-Based Summer Camp

Searching for a summer camp that blends outdoor adventure, hands-on learning, and child-led discovery? Our Nature-Based STEAM Outdoor Camp offers children a summer rooted in curiosity, creativity, and connection to the natural world. As the only KDHE-licensed outdoor summer camp in Manhattan, Kansas, we provide families with peace of mind while giving children the freedom to explore, experiment, and grow.

What is a Nature-Based STEAM Camp?

STEAM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math—and at our camp, these subjects come alive outdoors. Children investigate real-world questions through:

  • Nature exploration and outdoor science experiments

  • Engineering challenges using loose parts and natural materials

  • Creative art inspired by the environment

  • Problem-solving, collaboration, and critical thinking

  • Open-ended play that supports confidence and independence

Learning happens through doing, wondering, building, and testing, not worksheets or screens.

Summer Camp in Manhattan, KS
Outdoor Summer Camp in Manhattan, KS

  • Only KDHE-licensed outdoor summer camp in Manhattan, KS. What does this mean?

    That our team of teaching staff must meet specific training requirements, receive a federal background check, and follow a set of regulations.

  • We pride ourselves in small group sizes. This allows our team of teaching staff to build relationships with children and families.

    Our ratios are 1 Teacher to 15 Children with a total enrollment on any given day being 37.

  • Safety is the foundation of everything we do. As a KDHE-licensed outdoor summer camp, our environment, staffing ratios, and procedures meet state health and safety standards. Our team actively supervises children, prepares outdoor spaces with intention, and remains present and responsive—so children can explore freely within a thoughtfully designed, secure setting.

  • We believe risk is not something to eliminate—it’s something to understand and manage. Our educators continuously assess the environment, materials, and children’s abilities, making informed decisions about when to step in and when to step back. This intentional approach allows children to climb, build, balance, and experiment while adults carefully monitor for real hazards, not healthy challenges.

    Risky play builds confidence, resilience, and critical thinking. When children are allowed to assess their own limits—while supported by attentive adults—they learn body awareness, decision-making, and self-trust. These moments matter. They help children develop the skills they need not just for summer camp, but for life.

  • Our outdoor camp is intentionally designed for children who learn best by moving, exploring, and doing. Curious minds are encouraged to ask questions, test ideas, and engage their whole bodies in the learning process. Whether they’re climbing, collecting, building, or collaborating, children are supported in ways that honor their energy, independence, and natural drive to explore the world around them.

  • Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math are woven naturally into each day through hands-on, real-world experiences. Children engage in experimentation, problem-solving, creative design, and observation—all grounded in outdoor exploration. Rather than isolated lessons, STEAM learning emerges organically as children investigate nature, build structures, create art, and make meaningful connections through play.

  • Our Summer Camp begins Tuesday, May 26th and tentatively end Friday, August 7th (pending USD 383 start date).

    Drop off begins as early as 7:45 am and pick up no later than 5:30 pm.

Who This Camp Is For

Our Nature-Based STEAM Camp is ideal for children who:

  • Enjoy being outdoors and exploring nature

  • Love hands-on learning and creative challenges

  • Benefit from movement, collaboration, and open-ended play

  • Are you ready for a summer filled with curiosity and confidence

Weekly Field Trips & Outdoor Exploration

Adventure extends beyond our camp space. Each week, children participate in three off-site field trips, including swimming experiences that support water confidence, physical development, and summer fun. One dedicated day each week is spent at Prairiewood Retreat & Preserve, where children explore the prairie ecosystem, learn about conservation, and observe native plants and animals. These experiences deepen children’s connection to nature while fostering curiosity, environmental awareness, and real-world learning through direct experience.

Enrollment Information

Enrollment for Summer Camp begins with an inquiry form, located at the bottom of this page. All interested families must complete the form to be considered for enrollment. Beginning February 6, families will be contacted directly to start the enrollment process and review availability.

We offer flexible enrollment options, including full-time, part-time, and weekly sessions, allowing families to choose the schedule that best fits their summer needs. Completing the inquiry form does not guarantee placement, but it is the required first step in securing a spot.

*We still have Weekly options available, inquire now!*